Italy’s Form and Prospects
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in Europe. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach. The mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, Luciano Spalletti, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team.
Recently, Italy has gone unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing notable wins against Venezuela and Ecuador. A draw at home against Turkey and a narrow 1-0 victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game underline their solid run of form. As Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania’s Road to Euro 2024
Albania has secured qualification for the European Championship for only the second time in their history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, marking them as a team not to be underestimated, even though they are perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B.
Albania's resilience and tenacity are key factors that cannot be overlooked. Their preparation included dominant friendly wins, such as a 3-0 victory over Liechtenstein and a 3-1 triumph over Azerbaijan. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania presents an unpredictable yet formidable challenge.
Previewing the Clash: Italy vs Albania
As Italy prepares to face Albania in their opening Euro 2024 match, the probable lineups offer a glimpse into the strategies both teams might employ. Italy's likely starting lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with a defense featuring Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. The midfield is expected to be orchestrated by Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Lorenzo Pellegrini, while the forward line includes Federico Chiesa and Gianluca Scamacca.
Conversely, Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha in goal, with Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, and Berat Djimsiti in defense. Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani are likely to control the midfield, while Armando Broja and Taulant Seferi lead the attack.
Team News and Squad Insights
Italy Euro 2024 Squad:
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, Guglielmo Vicario.
Defenders: Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, Federico Gatti.
Midfielders: Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Nicolo Fagioli.
Forwards: Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania Euro 2024 Squad:
Goalkeepers: Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, Thomas Strakosha.
Defenders: Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, Marash Kumbulla.
Midfielders: Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, Ylber Ramadani.
Forwards: Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, Taulant Seferi.
Head-to-Head and Prediction
Historically, Italy boasts a dominant record against Albania, with a four-match winning streak in their last five encounters. Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority under Spalletti, they are the favorites for the upcoming clash. A victory in their opening match would not only extend Italy's winning run but also put them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Our prediction sees Italy emerging triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline. Italy understands the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, and a victory would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. As both teams prepare to showcase their talents on the grand stage, all eyes will be on this intriguing fixture as Euro 2024 unfolds.